Recipe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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recipe

[ˈrɛsɪpi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

cooking

A set of instructions for preparing a particular dish, including a list of ingredients and detailed steps.

Synonyms

formula, instruction, method, procedure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recipe

Used mainly in cooking or baking to describe steps to make a specific dish or meal.

  • I found a great recipe for chocolate cake.
  • Do you have a recipe for homemade pasta?
formula

Commonly used in scientific, mathematical, or technical contexts to describe a set of rules or principles expressed in symbols.

  • The formula for water is H2O.
  • She developed a new formula for the chemical compound.
method

Describes a systematic or established way of doing something, often used in scientific, academic, or technical fields.

  • She developed a new method for data analysis.
  • His method of teaching is very effective.
procedure

Refers to an official or established way of doing something, often within professional or bureaucratic settings.

  • The procedure for renewing a passport is straightforward.
  • He followed the correct safety procedures.
instruction

Generally refers to detailed directions or orders on how to complete a task, often found in manuals or guides.

  • Please read the instructions before assembling the furniture.
  • The teacher gave clear instructions for the assignment.

Examples of usage

  • I found a great recipe for chocolate cake online.
  • Can you share your recipe for homemade pasta sauce?
Context #2 | Noun

medical

A prescribed treatment for a medical condition or disease.

Synonyms

prescription, remedy, therapy, treatment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recipe

Use when referring to instructions for preparing food or drinks.

  • She found a recipe for chocolate cake online
  • He followed his grandmother's recipe to make the perfect lasagna
prescription

Used in medical contexts for describing a doctor's written order for medication or treatment.

  • The doctor gave her a prescription for antibiotics
  • You need a prescription to get this medication
remedy

Describes a means of curing or relieving a minor ailment, often not requiring a doctor's prescription.

  • A hot cup of tea with honey is a common remedy for a sore throat
  • She tried various home remedies to alleviate her headache
treatment

Broad term used for the management and care of a patient for the purpose of combating disease or disorder.

  • Her treatment for cancer includes chemotherapy
  • They are exploring new treatments for the rare condition
therapy

Refers to the treatment of physical or mental health issues, usually involving ongoing sessions or a series of actions.

  • He goes to physical therapy twice a week for his knee injury
  • She began therapy to cope with her anxiety

Examples of usage

  • The doctor gave me a recipe for antibiotics to treat my infection.
  • Following the recipe for physical therapy helped improve my mobility.
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To tell someone what to do in a particular situation or how to achieve a certain outcome.

Synonyms

advise, direct, guide, instruct.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recipe

Used when providing detailed instructions for preparing food or specific tasks.

  • She gave me a recipe for a delicious chocolate cake.
  • Do you have a recipe for making homemade pasta?
advise

Used when giving suggestions or recommendations to someone on what they should do.

  • I advise you to take an umbrella; it looks like it might rain.
  • He advised her to invest in stocks.
instruct

Used when giving detailed and precise information on how to do something, often with an element of teaching.

  • The teacher instructed the students on how to solve the math problem.
  • She instructed him to follow the safety procedures carefully.
guide

Used when providing assistance or showing the way, often in a more gentle or helpful manner than 'direct'.

  • The tour guide will guide you through the museum.
  • He guided his friend on how to set up the new computer.
direct

Used when giving official or authoritative instructions, often in a formal or professional setting.

  • The manager directed the team to start the project immediately.
  • She directed them to fill out the necessary forms.

Examples of usage

  • She recipe'd me on how to ace the job interview.
  • Can you recipe me on how to fix my car's engine?

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Culture

  • In many cultures, recipes are passed down through generations, preserving family traditions and customs.
  • Cookbooks have been a staple in households since the ancient times, allowing people to share and teach cooking techniques.
  • Modern-day recipes often include not just ingredients and steps but also tips and variations to encourage creativity.

Science of Cooking

  • Each recipe involves a chemical process; for example, baking a cake relies on reactions between baking soda and acids.
  • Temperature and timing in recipes can alter the texture and flavor of food, demonstrating the science behind cooking.
  • In molecular gastronomy, chefs experiment with recipes to create innovative dishes that challenge traditional methods.

Literature

  • Recipes often appear in literature and can symbolize knowledge, transformation, and the blend of science and art.
  • Many novels and poems reference famous recipes, linking them to memories or emotions experienced by characters.
  • Some authors have published books focusing on the narrative behind cooking, intertwining stories with recipes.

Pop Culture

  • Reality cooking shows emphasize the importance of creating unique recipes, turning contestants into celebrities.
  • Social media platforms have revolutionized recipe sharing, with influencers creating viral food trends that inspire millions.
  • Food blogs and YouTube channels have become significant sources for recipe ideas, transforming how we approach cooking at home.

Origin of 'recipe'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'recipe' comes from the Latin word 'recipere' which means 'to receive' or 'to take'.
  • It was originally used in the context of medicine, as recipes were instructions for preparing remedies.
  • By the 18th century, 'recipe' began to be commonly associated with cooking and food preparation.

The word 'recipe' originated from Latin 'recipere', which means 'to take' or 'to receive'. In the Middle Ages, 'recipe' was commonly used in medical texts to introduce a formula or prescription for a remedy. Over time, the term expanded to include cooking instructions, evolving into its modern usage today.


Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,166 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.